4 Longshots to win the Big Ten in 2024

Rutgers

I'm not sure if there's a team in the country whose schedule sets up better than Rutgers's. The Scarlet Knights avoid Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, Michigan, and Iowa this year and will have the advantage of playing other strong programs, such as Washington and Wisconsin, at home.

The Scarlet Knights retain 72% of the roster that defeated Miami in last year's Pinstripe Bowl, including Kyle Monangai, the Big Ten's leading rusher last year. With an easy schedule and a lot of returning production, Greg Schiano's team is one to keep an eye on throughout the season.

Nebraska

It's been a while since the Cornhuskers have been competitive in the college football landscape. Like Rutgers, Nebraska has a favorable first portion of its conference schedule. If they can take down rival Colorado in week 2 in Lincoln, there is a world the Huskers start 7-0.

A huge reason for the preseason hype around Nebraska this year is QB Dylan Raiola. Raiola received a lot of praise early in training camp for his arm talent and accuracy. His success will enormously impact how the Cornhuskers' year goes, and I'm buying the hype from the freshman.

Washington

Yes, I know. Jedd Fisch inherits a Washington team that loses key players such as Michael Penix Jr., Rome Odunze, and Jaylin Polk. However, Fisch is coming off a season in which he won 10 games with an Arizona team that had six combined wins in the previous two years.

The Huskies also bring in a substantial transfer portal class this season. Former Mississippi State QB Will Rogers comes to Seattle, joined by many newcomers on the offensive line. If the offensive-minded Fisch can get the most out of Rogers as he did with Noah Fifita in Tucson last year, the Huskies could make some noise this season.

Iowa

Kirk Ferentz has been the model of consistency during his 34 seasons in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes retain over 75% of a roster that made the Big Ten championship last year against Michigan. Iowa should once again have another stellar defense, returning players such as LB Jay Higgins and DB Sebastian Castro.

The Hawkeyes' main problem was their offense, which ranked among the worst in the nation last year. QB Cade McNamara will play a crucial role for this team, as he gains a new coach in offensive coordinator Tim Lester. If Iowa can even have an average offense compared to last year, the Hawkeyes will continue to frustrate many of the opponents they play.